Re-infection is common and often occurs if threadworms are not promptly treated.
Left untreated, threadworms can lead to more serious problems such as:
- weight loss
- insomnia: difficulty getting to sleep or staying asleep
- bedwetting (enuresis)
Secondary skin infection
Threadworms can cause intense itching around the anus and vagina. Continual scratching in these areas can cause your skin to become red and inflamed. If the skin is broken, a secondary skin infection may develop if bacteria enter the wound.
See your GP or call NHS Direct on 0845 4647 if you think that you have a skin infection.
Infection outside the intestine
A threadworm infection outside the intestine is very rare, but has been known to occur in the:
- vagina
- womb (uterus)
- pelvic peritoneum (lining on the inside of the abdomen)
- stomach area
- liver
- lungs
